The Outlet: September 1, 2026
Hi there,
Public charging is getting more reliable, Utah solar hit a first, and the skilled-trades pipeline still needs a clearer on-ramp.
🔦 Fun Fact
On a three-phase motor, phase sequence determines rotation. Swapping any two phase conductors reverses the direction, which is why verifying rotation before coupling a motor to its load can prevent an expensive surprise.
😆 Laugh of the Day
Why did the electrician take the long route to the charger?
The shortcut had too much resistance.
🔌 Public Fast Charging Is Becoming More Reliable
J.D. Power's latest public-charging study found DC fast-charger satisfaction rose 12 points, while failed charging visits fell to the lowest level recorded in the study. Charger availability, site safety, and cost all improved, although Level 2 satisfaction declined. For electrical contractors, the result is a reminder that commissioning, uptime, access, lighting, and maintenance shape the customer experience long after energization.
☀️ Solar Becomes Utah's Largest Power Source for a Month
Utah generated about 1 terawatt-hour of solar electricity in May, nearly one-third of the state's total and slightly more than natural gas. Large solar-plus-storage projects and data-center demand are part of the buildout, while solar and storage accounted for 91% of new U.S. generating capacity in the first quarter. The field work follows the generation mix: collection systems, storage, substations, interconnections, and commissioning all need qualified electrical crews.
🧰 The Trades Have Jobs, but the On-Ramp Is Still Fragmented
A survey of 1,500 trade workers found 77% would choose the trades again, yet only 14% entered through a registered apprenticeship and 51% learned about opportunities through word of mouth. The shortage is not just an interest problem; it is also a navigation problem. Shops can help by making apprenticeship steps visible, pairing new hires with experienced mentors, and showing a clear path from helper to licensed responsibility.
Build the on-ramp, commission the charger, and follow the work where the grid is changing.
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